Notice! This post contains SPOILERS for Absolute Batman #2Batman Absolute The last attack is a prime example that shows how close he will come to breaking the original Dark Knight’s classic no-kill rule. Although only two issues of the new series have been published, the new Absolute Batman proves that this version of Bruce Wayne isn’t messing around when it comes to punishing Gotham’s criminals. While he may not kill, it certainly seems like he’s a lot more comfortable walking that line compared to what’s seen in the typical Batman in the main DC Universe.
As seen in Absolute Batman #2 by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta, Bruce Wayne’s ongoing war with the brutal gang known as the Party Animals continues to escalate throughout the city. Continuing to push forward with no sign of backing down, this darker universe’s version of Alfred had already determined that Batman is essentially a never-ending “forward forward”, aka Batman AF. To that end, there’s one moment in particular that painfully shows just how close the Absolute Batman is to killing his prey in Gotham.
Batman’s all-out war on crime is much more challenging
An underdog without the typical privilege
In this new Absolute Universe created by Darkseid, hope is scarce. As such, it was revealed that the Lord of Apokolips created a reality in which the heroes are the oppressed and are not truly accepted into the natural systems and orders of society. Likewise, many of its advantages and privileges have also disappeared.
In the case of Absolute Batman, this version of Bruce Wayne does not come from wealth, nor does he live in a mansion with a giant Batcave full of cars, planes, boats and an arsenal of gadgets thanks to almost infinite resources.. Instead, Bruce Wayne is an engineer who grew up in Crime Alley. That being said, he is still resourceful in his war on crime, having created more brutal weapons and tools to aid in his crusade, such as an ax that replaces his chest logo and his Batmobile, which is a modified rigid truck.
Absolute Batman doesn’t kill (but comes very close)
This Dark Knight is full of rage
As the challenge is more difficult, it seems that Absolute Batman compensated by being much more brutal in his tactics, especially compared to the original Batman from the main DC Universe. While the first issue showed Absolute Batman chopping off hands with his bat-shaped axe, Absolute Batman #2 arguably takes this idea even further when he fights a group of Party Animals in the Gotham Aquarium.. Although he was heavily outnumbered and looked like he was cornered, Batman still proves to be the victor by effectively using the environment around him (with extremely painful results).
After breaking the glass and flooding the floor, Batman clings to the roof while dropping pellets of chemically concentrated vinegar into the salt water, thus creating hydrochloric acid that begins to melt the Party Animals’ feet and toes.. As such, it has become quite apparent that Absolute Batman has no qualms about maiming and permanently injuring his enemies. Furthermore, Alfred himself has noted that Batman seems to enjoy and relish the pain he causes, wanting to send a message with every bone he breaks (and more).
Will Absolute Batman break the classic no-killing rule?
It’s not hard to imagine
This version of The Dark Knight is filled with so much anger. It is a fact that has become more than evident through his brutal tactics and the lasting damage he inflicts. As such, it’s not hard to imagine a scenario where he could go too far, whether by choice or by accident in the heat of battle.
“It will be fascinating to see how the Absolute Batman’s war continues, and whether he will ever have to keep (or break) the classic no-killing rule…”
While this new Batman is just as intelligent and capable during a fight, the fact that he’s much angrier and more aggressive will likely result in some major consequences in future issues. Absolute Batman seems to have a lot less emotional control in comparison, and as such, it seems like it’s only a matter of time before he somehow takes a life.. To that end, it will be fascinating to see how the Absolute Batman’s war continues and whether he will ever have to keep (or break) the classic no-killing rule in issues yet to come.
Absolute Batman #2 It’s on sale now at DC Comics.